Best Dynamic Microphones For Home Studios Under $500

Review Criteria

All mics included in my reviews were chosen based on their widespread use and reputation in the professional music community.

I’ve also added my insights gained from 25+ years of experience running a very successful music production company, creating Audio Addiction Music Library, a production music library with global distribution, and recording in major studios.

The 5 Best Dynamic Microphones Under $500

The Shure SM57 is probably the most widely used mic in history, and certainly one of the best-selling mics in the world. Shure released the first SM57 in 1965, and it quickly became a go-to mic for guitars, vocals, drums, horns and more.

There are four main reasons it gained in popularity so fast. First, as a dynamic mic it is capable of withstanding high sound levels that can damage more delicate condenser mics.

Second, it is also built very ruggedly, making it last in the studio for many years despite constant use (and abuse).

Third, the mic just plain sounds good on many different sound sources, but especially on vocals and guitar amps.

And finally, studio owners love them because they are very inexpensive compared to condenser or ribbon mics. The SM57 retails for only about $99.00.

Like the SM57, this award-winning mic has been another must-have mic since it was introduced in 1966.

The SM58 is primarily designed for vocal use, both onstage and in the studio.

The main difference between the SM57 and SM58 is that the SM58 has its frequency response tuned especially for vocals. It is designed to cut out low rumble and add a boost in the upper-mid frequencies. The result is a warm detailed sound that makes vocals stand out.

Besides the frequency response, the SM58 has a ball grille which incorporates a built-in wind and pop filter to reduce plosives (pops on P sounds). The SM57 has a smaller grill designed for instrumental recording.

About The Author

Michael is a veteran award-winning composer, publisher, and producer. He is the owner of The Music Kitchen and Audio Addiction Music Library, a production music library with worldwide distribution. You can learn more about him on the About page.